Today we’d like to introduce you to Carolyn Walker.
Hi Carolyn, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I never knew makeup could be another medium of art to express myself. I grew up in a single-mother household, and makeup became an outlet we could afford at that time. Brands like Wet n Wild sparked my love for makeup—I would outline my eyes with their $1 black liner. But what truly birthed my passion was watching the Selena movie. You know the one, starring J.Lo! The red lip, the red nails, the jet-black hair. And then from Selena came Aaliyah—Aaliyah with her gelled sideburns. What a great time to explore glam and fashion: the early 90s. I feel privileged to have witnessed that decade.
Makeup was my escape. It had power over me, the same way a book can transport you to a whole different world without ever leaving your room. I grew up being bullied during my adolescent years. We couldn’t afford the Reeboks or the Nikes. We barely could afford Payless shoes.
Makeup allowed me to leave the pain behind. To become who I felt I needed to be. It also introduced me to different walks of life I likely never would have crossed paths with otherwise. You become your clients’ confidant. They let their guards down. Their rawness. You see their insecurities up close. Clients are vulnerable, and that vulnerability gives you, as an artist, a moment of power. It’s your chance to truly showcase your passion, your love. Your art is on their face—and they will either love it or hate it.
Think about it: people already struggling to love themselves are coming to you to help change that. The memories you help create through pictures and videos will last forever. You, as the artist, hold that responsibility.
In the wrong hands, that power can be detrimental—to a client, and even to society. It’s a conversation many of us still aren’t ready to have.
Knowing what I know now, I carry this responsibility with deep care. When you sit in my chair, I hope you feel the admiration I have for you. I want you to see the beauty you already possess. It’s not about the makeup—it’s about amplifying what’s already there. You are a masterpiece. And I hope you never forget that.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
“If it was easy, everyone would be doing it.”
It’s a statement we’ve heard time and time again. At 37, I finally understand it from a different lens. Through the tears, rejection, and abandonment came grit. Being told “no” doesn’t scare me anymore. I’m no longer afraid to be authentically me.
Now, don’t get me wrong—sometimes imposter syndrome still sneaks up on me. But I can recognize it by name. I can call it out. I can look fear in the eyes and say, “Not today.”
I’ve gained a humble confidence—but it came at a price. A confidence where I’m no longer racing against anyone, no longer comparing myself to others. Well… on most days. I show up as myself now. I give more grace to her—to me—Carolyn. I wipe away her tears when she feels like she has to face it all alone. I hold her hand. I remind her who she is.
The sacrifices I’ve made—for me, and for my two beautiful baby boys—have been many. The games I had to miss in order to provide. The Christmas gifts I couldn’t afford because a gig canceled last minute. None of this has been easy. There have been countless moments where I’ve wanted to give up.
But if not me—then who?
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am an Artist! Wow—I’ve gotten better at saying that out loud without laughing. Carolyn, an Artist! I can still hear the voices saying, “When are you going to get a real job?” or “Doing makeup won’t get you anywhere.”
But what a journey it has been! Today, I’m known for the Carolyn Glow—the radiance I give to each client. You could walk in on set with dull skin or a face full of acne, and walk out with an effortless glow. My artistry is about amplifying your natural beauty. I’m not here to conform you to society’s expectations, but to showcase your God-given beauty—the work of the true Artist, Christ Himself.
Without a doubt, that’s what sets me apart. My compassion. My love. The presence I carry. If you come to my chair feeling empty, expect to leave feeling full again. I believe even my psychology degree plays a role in that experience, allowing me to connect on a deeper level with each person who trusts me with their face.
What’s next?
I’ve learned to be present. Yes, of course, make your goals—but don’t forget to live in the now. You’ve heard the saying, “When you make plans, God laughs.” I’ve boasted about my future goals, only to be humbled—embarrassingly so—to my core.
The best advice I can give is this: continue doing the things your future self will thank you for. Stay present. And above all, never lose your faith.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @glam_by_carolyn
